Greg Jackson of Octopus Energy Appointed to Influential Cabinet Office Role

Greg Jackson, the founder of Octopus Energy, has secured a notable government advisory position just weeks after a public divergence with Ed Miliband over energy pricing strategy. Jackson is set to join the Cabinet Office board as one of three non-executive members, signalling a significant move by the government to inject technology-driven thinking into Whitehall’s reform agenda.

This appointment positions Jackson, a renowned figure in renewables since founding Octopus in 2015, at the heart of a state modernisation effort led by Pat McFadden, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. The overhaul aims to reshape the Civil Service, potentially eliminating up to 50000 roles through the adoption of artificial intelligence and better technology use. Jackson’s expertise in deploying innovative tech—for example, software for major utility firms and digital solutions that streamline GP to consultant communication—aligns with the government’s aim to deliver services more efficiently without additional public spending.

Jackson’s remit is not limited to the energy sector. He is expected to champion fresh approaches to technology across departments, from healthcare optimisation to transport efficiency. Speaking to The Telegraph, Jackson emphasised moving away from protracted transformation projects, instead prioritising swift and tangible improvements in public service delivery. His focus will be on accelerating results by imbedding the agile technological culture that made Octopus the largest household energy supplier in the UK.

The timing of his Cabinet Office appointment is notable, as it follows Miliband’s recent rejection of Jackson’s zonal energy pricing strategy. That proposal aimed to lower bills for customers close to renewable generation sites and encourage investment in the grid by pressuring companies to build infrastructure nearer end users. Despite calculating potential annual savings of £3.7 billion for households, major wind farm operators voiced concerns about how such a scheme could affect investment and net zero ambitions. This feedback led to the plan being shelved, though Jackson remains well positioned to provide input on a broad range of policy challenges.

His tenure on the Cabinet Office board commences at a pivotal moment for Labour’s modernisation agenda. He is joined by John Fallon, formerly of Pearson, Lisa Tremble of British Airways, and auditor Maura Sullivan. Each non-executive member will receive a £15000 annual fee and is required to attend quarterly board meetings as well as frequent sessions with ministers and senior officials.

This move underscores the government’s commitment to transform how the state operates, drawing on leading private sector talent to inject both scrutiny and innovation into the highest levels of policy execution. Jackson’s appointment will be closely watched for its impact on the adoption of technology and efficiency throughout the public sector.